Rose Kirk, a member of Casella’s Board of Directors and a nationally recognized leader in corporate social responsibility and social impact innovation, has been named the recipient of the 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Association for Community College Entrepreneurship (NACCE). The award recognizes individuals who have achieved entrepreneurial success while making significant contributions to their communities through civic leadership, philanthropy, and public service.
Throughout a distinguished career spanning more than four decades, Kirk has led transformative initiatives that have expanded educational opportunities, advanced digital inclusion, and strengthened communities nationwide. As Chief Corporate Social Responsibility Officer and Senior Marketing Executive at Verizon, she pioneered innovative programs that connected millions of students, educators, and small businesses with technology, skills development, and resources designed to foster long-term success. Her leadership in responsible innovation and stakeholder engagement has helped shape best practices in corporate citizenship and social impact.
As a member of Casella’s Board of Directors, Kirk has brought a unique combination of corporate leadership experience, governance expertise, and commitment to responsible business practices. Her contributions have helped strengthen the Board’s strategic oversight while advancing discussions around sustainability, stakeholder engagement, and long-term value creation. Her thoughtful leadership and broad perspective continue to be an asset to Casella as the company pursues its mission of creating value for customers, employees, shareholders, and communities.
“Rose’s career exemplifies the power of visionary leadership combined with a deep commitment to serving others,” said Ned Coletta, Casella President and CEO. “Her expertise in corporate responsibility, innovation, strategic communications, and community engagement has influenced organizations and communities across the country. As a member of Casella’s Board of Directors, Rose brings invaluable insight, perspective, and leadership that help guide our company and strengthen our commitment to creating lasting value for our stakeholders. This recognition is a fitting tribute to her extraordinary contributions and enduring impact.”
Casella Waste Systems, Inc., headquartered in Rutland, Vermont, is one of the largest recyclers and most experienced fully integrated resource management companies in the Eastern United States. Founded in 1975 as a single truck collection service, Casella has grown its operations to provide solid waste collection and disposal, transfer, recycling, and organics services to more than one million residential, commercial, municipal, institutional, and industrial customers and provides professional resource management services to over 10,000 customer locations in more than 40 states.
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